Related Articles

Turkey is one of the few places on the planet where a day lounging on the beach can turn into an archaeological excavation of ancient Roman ruins. You can unravel Turkey's luxurious history as you weave through crowds in modern marketplaces and escape to hidden caves. Even as you read tips from travel experts, your planned vacation is sure to throw some surprises your way.

Big City Sightseeing

Istanbul, Turkey's capital, offers a microcosm of Turkish life, from Byzantine ruins to bustling bazaars. You can meander through thousands of shops at the Grand Bazaar and -- if your budget allows -- buy a carpet as a souvenir, as Frommer's recommends. Meanwhile, Topkapi Palace packs history dating back to the 15th century, with each sultan adding a personalized section to the palace during his reign. And if you need to unwind with an authentic Turkish experience, you can scrub away the modern world at a Turkish bath, such as the Frommer's-recommended Cemberlitas Hamami (cemberlitashamami.com).

Recommended Beaches

When summer temperatures soar, you can warm your skin on one of Turkey's white beaches or cool down with a swim. Frommer's calls the Blue Lagoon of Oludeniz Beach "the holy grail of Turkish beaches," thanks to its sandy shore jutting into turquoise waters. For wind-surfing, the breezy Alacati Bay on the Cesme Peninsula will keep you going. Meanwhile, Pirlanta Beach is close to the town of Cesme, with a long stretch of crisp, white sand. And if you want a secluded spot, Kabak offers a little beach hidden from the rest of the world by a forest of pine trees, according to the Guardian's Annabelle Thorpe.

Where to Rediscover History

If Istanbul's Topkapi Palace piqued your interest in history, you can dive further into the past at Turkey's museums and ruins. Istanbul Archaeology Museum is the country's largest museum, home to artifacts that date back to 6,000 B.C. Meanwhile, Ephesus is an ancient Greek -- and later Roman -- city that is surprisingly well-preserved; it's filled with insights into ancient daily life, from public toilets to its grand amphitheater. The 3,000-year-old theater at Hierapolis is also bound to impress with its size and views of Pamukkale's dramatic white terraces. And if you make it to Amos cove -- home to a pebbly beach -- you'll find ruins of a Roman settlement that include an amphitheater overlooking the sea.

Adventure Travel

Thanks to its quiet waters, Turkey is a smart choice for vacationers who want to swim or snorkel. For instance, at Kaputas Beach between Kalkan and Kas, you can swim to phosphorescent caves where the water glows. You can even dive beneath the surface to spot eels, octopuses and barracudas at places like Smuggler's Bay. Don't worry if it's your first time diving; you can take a lesson in Turkey with travel companies like Neilson (neilson.co.uk). If you prefer to stay dry, you can hike in the Sunday Times-recommended Love Valley, where you'll spot hundreds of Byzantine churches and obelisks. Meanwhile, the travertine terraces and pools of Pamukkale will give you another workout while you sightsee in nature.

Travel Tips

You can map a personalized route through Turkey or book with a tour company that will plan everything for you. Whatever you choose, Frommer's recommends covering up your legs in the interior of the country to avoid scandal and keeping your belongings close. Though Turkey is a safe country for tourists -- including single women -- caution never hurts. On days you plan to visit mosques, wear long pants or skirts that cover your legs; the mosques will provide scarves to cover your head and shoulders.